Grady-White 330 Express - Chapter 7: W I N T E R I Z a T I O N a N D S T O R a G E; General; Boat Storage

W INTERIZATION AND STORAGE
7–1
Chapter 7: Winterization and Storage
GENERAL
Boats stored during the winter or for an extended period of time require some routine
maintenance. The boat and its systems should be checked for maintenance and repairs prior to and
during the storage process. Arrange repairs during the storage period to reduce downtime during
your boating season.
Avoid costly damage and delay when launching your boat by having it stored and winterized
properly. This information is presented as a general guide; the actual storage should be performed
by a professional and qualified dealership. See page 61, in Sportfish, Cruisers, Yachts Owner’s
Manual for a checklist on winterizing and storage.
BOAT STORAGE
Grady-White boats are equipped with stern eyes and a bow eye. These eyes are for anchoring
and trailering purposes, and should be inspected regularly to insure structural integrity.
Slings must be used for lifting your Grady-White to prevent damage to the boat. To avoid
personal injury and property damage, it is advised to take extra precautions when lifting or
moving the boat for storage.
While transporting a boat by a lift or fork lift, the structure should remain as close to ground
level as possible. Slings should be in proper condition and tied together to prevent any movement
(separating or slipping) which could cause damage to the boat. If fork lifts are used to move the
boat, the forks should be padded, contoured to match the hull bottom, and in a secure location
under the hull in alignment with the stringers. The forks should be long enough to prevent the boat
from rocking forward and aft causing it to become unbalanced. Always verify the fork lift’s
capacity to ensure it is sufficient for the weight of the boat. Other conditions that should be
considered before hauling, transporting, or storing your boat include overhead lines, ground
conditions (frozen or soft), and storm conditions that may arise.
When storing your boat on the trailer, raise and block the trailer axle to prevent tire
deterioration. This is an excellent time to lubricate and pack the wheel bearings per the
manufacturer’s instructions.
Make sure the keel, chines and transom are fully supported. Indoor storage is beneficial
particularly if your climate produces freezing weather. The storage unit should not be airtight, but
should be ventilated. Ventilation is extremely important both around and through the boat.
W A R N I N G
The boat should not be lifted for storage using the bow and stern eyes. Use slings for lifting.
!